Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a disorder that causes stomach acid to flow backward into the espohagus. GERD causes a laxity in the band of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally prevents this backflow of acid. Heartburn, nausea, a sensation of food stuck in the throat, a dry cough, bad breath and a horse voice are all possible symptoms of GERD, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Avoiding certain foods that aggravate the symptoms is one aspect of GERD treatment.
Fatty Foods
Fatty foods can aggravate GERD symptoms. Fried foods and other meals high in fat delay emptying of the stomach and also cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, according to the McKinley Health Center of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It is recommended that GERD sufferers keep a food journal documenting foods eaten and symptoms that occur in order to find the trigger foods to avoid.
Peppermint
Peppermint tea, gum, candy and other foods or beverages flavored with peppermint should be avoided by GERD sufferers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peppermint causes the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, allowing the reflux of stomach acids and worsening symptoms.
Alcohol
Reducing or stopping the intake of alcoholic beverages is recommended to diminish GERD symptoms, according to an article titled "Head and Neck Manifestations of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease" by Vanita Ahuja, M.D., in the journal "American Family Physician."
Chocolate
Chocolate should be avoided by those with GERD. Chocolate contains a chemical called methylxanthine that relaxes the lower sphincter of the esophagus, McKinley Health Center says.
Irritants
Avoidance of irritating foods can reduce heartburn and damage to the lining of the esphagus when acid reflux does occur, the American College of Gastroenterology explains. Acidic foods such as citrus fruits and juices, and tomato-based foods such as spaghetti sauce, pizza and chili, are foods that are considered irritants. Hot peppers, spicy foods and carbonated beverages also aggravate GERD and should be avoided.
References
- American Family Physician: Head and Neck Manifestations of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Fact Sheet: Gastroesphageal Reflux (GERD)
- The American College of Gastroenterology: The Word on GERD
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Peppermint
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: McKinley Health Center: The GERD Diet (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
